Aims

This major aims to provide students with a broad-based foundation in science together with the ability to acquire extensive subject knowledge in the discipline of microbiology. It also aims to develop a range of transferable research, analytical and communication skills including the capacity to:

understand and apply relevant scientific principles in a microbiological context

retrieve and present scientific information about microbiology, including communicating effectively with lay, general scientific and specialised scientific audiences in written and spoken form

critically analyse and evaluate information relevant to microbiology in order to solve problems

appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of microbiology and engage positively with people and ideas within the associated disciplines and beyond

appreciate the the role of microbiology in society, the regulatory frameworks which apply to and the ethical issues it raises

work independently and take responsibility for updating and adapting their knowledge and skills

work effectively and productively within a team.

The major provides the foundations that will underpin ongoing professional development, preparing graduates for further study in microbiology or another science or non-science related discipline or for a career in a microbiology related field or in other areas where the range of skills and knowledge acquired is needed or desirable.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the major students will be able to:

demonstrate knowledge of and critically apply theories, subject content, professional methodologies and research procedures relevant to microbiology

understand and describe the processes through which the current knowledge about the discipline of microbiology was developed